Patient Navigation Specialization

The Patient Navigation program is designed to prepare individuals to become patient navigators/patient advocates/community health assistants/personal care coordinators (these are a few of the terms that healthcare institutions use to refer to patient navigators). These individuals successfully guide patients through the healthcare system and treatment plan as a liaison, patient guide and advocate. Patient navigators possess skills essential to the safe and effective movement of patients across the care continuum, self-management and enhanced patient-practitioner communication.

Demonstrate a commitment to applying professional behaviors and adhering to ethical principles.

"When I first applied for the Patient Navigation program, I wasn’t sure what to expect; but after taking the first course, I had a better understanding of what a patient navigator does and how we can really help people in the community. Many of my courses throughout the program have helped prepare me for my current job as a Community Health Assistant (Patient Navigator). I often find myself using certain techniques that I learned throughout my course of study to help assist me when caring and talking with patients. I really enjoy my job with Geisinger at Home because I am able to help patients in ways that they didn’t think was possible."

The minimum criteria for admission into the Bachelor of Science in Health Science: Patient Navigation Specialization program as a freshman student are:

Class rank in the top half of the high school graduating class and/or a cumulative 2.5 grade point average

Minimum SAT requirement of 850 (combined Math and Critical Reading) if taken prior to March 5, 2016, or a combined 930 if taken after March 5, 2016. In lieu of the SAT, the ACT results may be presented with a minimum required composite score of 18.

Successful transfer applicants will typically hold a minimum collegiate grade point average of 2.0, having completed at least 15 college credits. Please note the above listed requirements are general, and that each application is looked at thoroughly, taking into account individual grades, academic rigor, and other factors.

Prospective students for the Patient Navigation Certificate program must submit a graduating high school transcript or GED certificate.